The Fast Lane: 5 Greatest Races In The World

Racing sports fascinate millions of people around the world. Many people forget, however that several of the best races don’t necessarily happen on the racetrack. Ranging from Formula 1, off-road racing to cross-country treks, some of the best races are extremely dangerous yet extraordinary to watch.

We found 5 of the greatest races in the world.

1. Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

The Pikes Peak race, also known as The Race to the Clouds, is an annual hill climb race to the summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado in the USA. The race includes automobile and motorbike competitors and, because of the rough terrain, it is considered one of the most dangerous races in the world. Although Pikes Peak’s course is only approximately 20 kilometres long, it has over 156 turns and competitors face a steep elevation of nearly 4300 meters. Pikes Peak has been running since 1916, which makes it the second oldest race in America. While this competition experiments with new classes such as trucks or quads almost every year, the race permits only around 150 competitors, which makes it a very sought after competition.

2. The Dakar Rally

The Dakar Rally is one of the most famous off-road trek races in the world. When the competition first started in 1977, it was called The Paris-Dakar since the race was originally from Paris to Dakar in Senegal. However, the course was too dangerous and the race subsequently moved to South America where it is now annually hosted. Despite moving the race to a somewhat safer terrain, the Dakar Rally is still extremely dangerous and contestants risk their lives when they participate (in the past, the rough terrain has caused competitors to suffer heart attacks). Not surprisingly, this race is one of the most watched races in the world.

3. The International Isle of Man Tourist Trophy

The Isle of Man might be a tiny island but it is home to one of the biggest races in the world. This island, located off the coast of England, hosts The International Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Race, which is considered one of the most prestigious motorcycle races around. Statistically, the race is also one of the deadliest races for competitors. Since the race commenced in the early 1900’s, 239 riders have lost their lives while participating in this race. In 1977, the race became part of the TT Formula 1 Championship and moved to the United Kingdom and it has become a big tourist incentive for the Isle of Man. On race day, roads around the island are closed and operate as the racetrack. The race is only open to professional motorcyclists and not surprisingly, globally it is one of the most-watched races.

4. The Nürburgring 24

The 24 Hours Nürburgring competitionis a GT endurance-racing event that takes place in central Germany. The racetrack is a 25km circuit with multiple lanes and is famous for its hard terrain and difficult corners. As the race’s title suggests, the duration of this competition is 24 hours, which makes it a very tough race. The race allows over 200 cars and around 700 drivers and although it is a relatively low-key race, those who follow the competition will agree that it is an extraordinary and very exciting race.

5. King of the Hammers

The King of the Hammers is an American based race that is a combination of high-speed racing and a desert surface. Although the race only began in 2007, it is one of the toughest off-road competitions. The unusual racing cars used in The King of the Hammers are known as Ultra 4 vehicles and are all custom made for each team. These cars are capable of reaching over 100 miles per hour in the desert sections of the race without acting up and having to visit a Huntington beach car repair shop . Only 13 teams are lucky enough to compete in this non-spectator, invitational race, however the race has a very large fan-base.

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Aaron Spade works for a construction company in Melbourne. He is a self-proclaimed car-fanatic and is currently busy with an advanced driving course. Lately he’s been looking at 4×4 utes since he needs a new car that’s trendy yet practical for work.